What is the primary function of Western blotting in the context of co-immunoprecipitation?

The primary function of Western blotting in the context of co-immunoprecipitation is to separate proteins on a gel. This technique involves the use of gel electrophoresis, which separates proteins based on their sizes. Once the proteins from the co-immunoprecipitation sample are separated, they can then be transferred to a membrane where specific proteins can be detected using antibodies. This process allows researchers to analyze interactions between proteins and confirm the presence of specific proteins in their samples, which is essential for understanding protein interactions and complex formations.

While quantifying protein expression levels may occur after visualization, the main purpose during co-immunoprecipitation is to effectively separate the proteins first. The other processes, such as visualizing protein activity and amplifying protein signals, relate more to subsequent stages of analysis rather than the primary function of Western blotting itself.